It’s that time again for a monthly segment of our long-term residents. A long-term resident is someone who has been here at least thirty days or longer, and we try to narrow it down to some who have been here even longer. Last month we featured Ellery and Oreo, and we have some good news. Ellery has found her forever home! This month, we are going to feature Charlie and Ryland.

“Thank you for reading about me! My name is Charlie, and I’m a handsome, dapper black and white shorthaired boy with one of the cutest, pinkest noses you’ve ever seen! I came to Wayside from another shelter that was low on space, and I’m tickled pink to be here, where I just know I will find my forever person or people. You might have noticed that I am 7 years old. That is just barely middle age for a cat! In fact, I am right in my prime—well past the silly kitten stuff and ready to focus my time, attention and affection on you! When I had my Felineality assessment here at Wayside, they told me I am a Secret Admirer! That means that I tend to be a little shy and timid in new situations. However, I am a people-oriented cat and need to be around people. I am keeping my paws crossed for a gentle, patient adopter who will give me time and space to get acclimated to my new surroundings. In return, I promise to fill your home and heart with beauty, purrs and love.”

“Hi there, I’m Ryland! I’m an active, playful, happy boy searching for a home and family to call my very own. I don’t think I’ve ever had that before…at least not that I remember. So I’m still learning and experiencing new things and I’m a work in progress, trying my best to figure out where I fit into this crazy world. Sometimes I’m skittish of new things and sometimes I get so excited that I forget my manners. But I’m smart and eager to learn, so I’m positive that with time, I will become an incredible companion and member of the family. I’m a handsome, 1 year old, 59 pound bundle of love and muscle. And I seem to be at least partially housebroken or crate trained, because I keep my kennel clean and I know to go to the bathroom when I get outside. I came to Wayside as a stray after a kind stranger found me wandering alone along the highway in Grandview, MO. I was happy to be safe, but I also felt confused and sort of afraid, especially of men. So I got busy, enrolling in all the programs Wayside has to offer. Some of the volunteers worked with me on my confidence while others taught me manners and focus. It all started to come together for me and now I’m ready for you! I’m strong and athletic and I will need daily exercise in my new home to keep me happy, healthy, and calm. I love to go for walks and I do really well on my leash, especially when I use my harness. I’m curious and social and playful and I never pass up a good game of fetch. Please stay patient and calm with me and help me learn the rules and boundaries, so that I can figure out what you expect from me. You can see my wheels turning as I think about and evaluate new things. I already know several commands, but I’d love to learn more, so teach me! My friends at Wayside have been using NILF (Nothing in Life is Free) training, which teaches me that I need to work to get what I want, like sitting for a treat. That’s been very effective for me and I hope to continue my training with you. I think I’ll fit in just fine with most active families. I enjoy playing with all different kinds of dogs. I’m patient, tolerant, friendly, and polite with them. In fact, I frequently get to participate in doggie playgroups at Wayside. If you have another dog that’s looking for a buddy, I might be the perfect match for you. Since I can be jumpy and mouthy when I get excited, I might do best without kids under the age of 5 or so. I just don’t want to accidentally hurt anyone. You can bring the family to meet me, if you’d like, and we can make sure we’re all a good match for each other. I’m a sweetheart and I have such a zest for life! I’m happy and I enjoy attention and I appreciate each day. I just need someone to share all of that with. I hope it’s you! I can’t wait to get out of the shelter and get settled into my new home and my new life with you. I’m ready!”

“Hi there! I’m so happy you are reading about me! My name is Leigh. What’s yours? As you can see from my pictures, I am a beautiful, dainty, shorthaired orange tabby girl with expressive golden eyes. I came to Wayside, as young mom with kittens, from another shelter that was low on space. My kitten-rearing days are over, and now I am ready to enjoy life as someone’s baby! I’m a sweet girl with a nice purr. I may be just a little shy when you first meet me, but I warm up quicker than a summer day in Kansas City. I enjoy attention and affection. I will let you know how much I am loving it with my soft purr and some gentle headbutts. Doesn’t that sound heavenly? It sure does to me! I’m so thankful to be here at Wayside, but I’m really excited, and ready, for a home to call my very own. Do you think it could be with you?”

“Well hello there. Thanks for clicking on my photo. My name is Chardonnay. As you can see, I’m a large dog with a brown coat with some speckles on my chest. I am 4 years old. I am an excellent walker on leash. I am friendly and enjoy human companionship. I’ve been known to crawl into a lap or two and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE getting petted on my head and a few belly rubs as well. I know how to “sit” and “come” but would love to learn some more commands. I also love toys and do a pretty good job of releasing them when asked to “drop it.” I’d love to be part of a family that likes adventures as much as they like lounging around. I’m a great running partner, and I can also see myself getting into a Netflix binge session. I think I do a pretty good job of both. If you are interested in meeting me, please come see me today. I can’t wait to join my new family!”

“Hello there! I’m an adorable little kitten! I am a bundle of fun in a small package and I am so ready for a new family to call my own. Kittens are so much fun and boy do we love to play! I will need some work on training but we will have a lot of fun along the way. Being such a youngster I will definitely need both physical and mental stimulation to help me stay well rounded. Give me some fun and interactive toys in the mix and we will have the time of our lives! I think I should also tell you that I love to cuddle. Curl up with me and I will purr to show you just how happy I am; cuddles are my favorite! If you are looking for a new buddy to bring you smiles and cheer, come on out to Wayside Waifs and ask to meet me!”

Our summers are hot, muggy, and wet, while our winters are chilly, dry, and windy. Being in the midwest, you get a little bit of everything here, apart from tsunamis and hurricanes. You can learn a little more about weather in this metro area here. You can also view the weather monthly here. With the upcoming heat wave, we figured now would be a good time to provide tips for protecting your pet from those harmful rays, while giving suggestions for safe fun in the sun!

1. Visit the vet for an early spring or summer checkup.

My animals coincidently have their appointments in the summer, but it helps me out because I can see how bad allergies are and my dog always gets her yearly heart-worm test. These worms are spread from host to host through mosquito bites, and are more common in the summertime. It’s also recommended that you get monthly prevention if you are in an area that has a high mosquito rate. Your vet will have the prevention to purchase at their office.

2. Always keep fresh, clean water at the ready.

This should be nothing new, but always provide a nice clean bowl of fresh water for your pet. I personally have two bowls of water in the house and one outside on our patio, if my dog wants to lay in the shade outside. If it is too hot, only take them outside for necessary potty breaks, and no need to over-exercise. We wouldn’t want you or your pet to get overheated!

3. Know the symptoms of heat stroke in your pets.

Excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse are all symptoms of heat stroke. Symptoms can also include seizures, bloody diarrhea and vomit along with an elevated body temperature of over 104 degrees. You’ll want to watch out for these during our high heat and humidity days! Do not leave your animals alone in a parked vehicle, it can cause a fatality!

4. Be careful about grooming your pets.

Feel free to trim longer hair on your dog, but never shave your dog: The layers of dogs’ coats protect them from overheating and sunburn. Brushing cats more often than usual can prevent problems caused by excessive heat. And be sure that any sunscreen or insect repellent product you use on your pets is labeled specifically for use on animals.

5. Check the pavement before you go on a walk.

Before you head out for a walk, touch the pavement. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paw pads. Walk on the grass and stay off the asphalt. You also might want to try booties for your dog so his paws don’t burn. You can still go on walks, but staying in shaded areas of grass is really the only way to go in the heat.

Now for some fun ideas in the sun that will be both entertaining and safe for you and your furry friend!

1. Kiddie Pools

It’s summertime, and some dogs love being in the water, so why not invest in a kiddie pool?! My dog is forty-five pounds of love, and on Sunday we usually get her pool out and she has the time of her life. Always supervise your animals near water, but it’s a cheap and fun way to stay cool outside! Our first picture above is a Waif here that is enjoying their kiddie pool!

2. Ice Treats

This is always fun to make, and you can do it at home! Instead of soda flavors or fruit, you can freeze peanut butter or dog treats and give it to your pet on a hot day. It gives them something to work on, and it tastes great to them as well! Some people even freeze their toys for some extra fun times. Just make sure all the food is dog/cat friendly.

3. Anything you can throw or toss.

Now is the time to break out that frisbee or rope. Keep in mind that during the heat of the day, you and your dog should be inside for safety reasons, but two or three throws wouldn’t hurt. You can even do this indoors if you have the access. That way they can get ample amount of playing time while still staying cool, and you as well!

4. Sprinkler toys

Once again, some dogs really enjoy the water, and sprinklers are a cheap entertainment option. There are sprinklers you can purchase for your yard, there are dog specific sprinklers, so many different kinds! If your dog isn’t a fan of the water, they may want to sit this one out, but sometimes the price is worth it!

There you have it! Hopefully these tips for surviving in the heat and enjoying the summertime with your furry friend! Always check the weather so you nor your pet will have to suffer in the heat! Follow the links above to check Kansas City weather patterns. From all of us here at Wayside Waifs, enjoy your summer, and have a safe Fourth of July!

“Hi there, I’m Phish! I’m happy, playful and I like to stay busy. I was so happy at first that I hurt my tail by wagging it so hard (they call that happy tail). I just got that all fixed up though. I am learning my manners and new commands here at the shelter so I know I will be able to show you what I have learned. I’m always ready for a lot of physical and mental stimulation! I’m looking for a forever family who wants to play and hang out with me. I hope that’s you! I’m a handsome, 1 year old, 40 pound energetic dog with shiny gray and white fur. I’m already crate trained too. I came to Wayside as a stray, after I was found by a nice person that works here. I was VERY skinny when I was found but I am putting weight on now and feeling so much better. I still feel nervous sometimes when I meet new people,and can also be a little jumpy..I’m just excited to start my new journey. I’m young and active, so I will need daily exercise in my new home. I love to go walking and I’ve been practicing my leash skills. Sometimes I still feel a little anxious when getting leashed up, but with practice, I’ve become more comfortable each day. A harness also works great for me during walks. Since I can be jumpy at first, I will need a home without kids under the age of at least 10. Why don’t you bring the whole family, canines included, to meet me and we can make sure we’re all a good match for each other. I can’t wait to meet you!”

“Thanks for reading about me! My name is Rosemary, and I’m a beautiful, dainty tortoisehell girl with lots of lovely black and gold swirling through my soft fur. It really brings out my beautiful golden eyes, or so I have heard. I came to Wayside from another shelter that was low on space. I was a young mother and did a terrific job raising my two wonderful kittens in a foster home. My babies have found their forever families. Now, it’s my turn to be somebody’s baby! My former foster mom says I have a cute personality and love to play, especially with pingpong balls. She said I am talkative and very tidy. So if you are looking for a good conversation buddy who is not messy, I just might be your girl. Here at Wayside, I’ve become known as a pretty, friendly girl with a nice purr who gives great headbutts. The Felineality assessors here say I am a Private Investigator. That means I tend to be timid in new situations, and I like to get to know people and feel comfortable with them instead of jumping in with all four paws. But hey, a little caution never hurt anyone, right? I’m hoping for a gentle, patient adopter who will give me time to warm up to my new home and family. Also, I need a home with no other cats and no kids under the age of 10. I promise to be the only feline you need. If you could use a little spice in your life, please hurry to Wayside and ask for me, Rosemary!”

“Thanks so much for reading about me! My name is Zaiden and I’m a four-year-old fella looking for my forever home. I’ve moved around a bit and I know that this is my last stop before I find people to share my love with. Let’s get to the important stuff. I’m a confident and interesting guy. I’d do best in a home without cats. I don’t care much for them. I also request that I meet any canines before going home. I want to make sure we all get along. In exchange for these requests, I promise I’ll be your best pal. I’ll always be there for you, no matter what life throws our way. I’m friendly with people. I love making new friends! I’d do best in a home with kiddos over the age of five. I’m a strong fella and I don’t want to accidentally hurt someone. I’m hoping to find a family who can give me plenty of physical and mental exercise. Throw a me a Kong toy with some peanut butter or let’s leash up and go for a walk together! I do well on a leash but sometimes I get a little jumpy. I’m excited to improve my leash skills with you! I’m part of the running program at Wayside and I’ve done well! If you’re looking for a running dog, I might just be the pup for you! I’m a husky, through and through. I’m looking for a family who is comfortable and knowledgeable about the kind of care huskies need. I sure can’t wait to meet you! Come to Wayside! I’ll be waiting!”

It’s the time of year to celebrate Independence Day! It is an annual Federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and registering as a country, the United States of America. We typically celebrate with family, friends, fireworks, and good times. However, our furry friends don’t enjoy the holiday as much as we do, so we here at Wayside thought it would be helpful to provide tips on Fourth of July safety for our four-legged family members.

1. Have updated ID and photos of all your pets.

This goes without saying, but sometimes the animals get so nervous and scared they might try to run off and find a safe place. Having proper identification and updated photos greatly increases their chances of coming home sooner. At our store Whiskers & Wags, we sell a variety of collars and ID tags that you can purchase on campus.

2. Leave your pets at home.

To avoid something like a lost pet happening, and to ease your furry friends’ stress, consider leaving them at home for the celebration. Most pets do not want to be near fireworks when they are set off, and find the most comfort at home. Please do not lock them in the car either, because they could suffer from heat stroke and/or brain damage. Consider creating a safe place for them. A downstairs area without windows or doors where they can relax and be away from loud noises.

3. Don’t put insect repellant on your pet.

This also should go without saying, but if your family is having a get-together and you would like to take your pets before the fireworks show, do not put insect repellant or sunscreen on your pet. There are certain ingredients in both that are poisonous for animals, and will have effects like neurological disorders and lethargy.

4. Never leave alcoholic beverages unattended to where your pets could reach them.

Dogs and cats are naturally curious, and if a beer or cocktail is left on the ground, they might consider knocking it over and drinking it. If consumed, the animal can get intoxicated and very weak, and could even go into a coma. Put those drinks on coasters on a high-rise table so they are unable to reach it, and provide fresh water for them to drink instead.

5. Keep your pet on their normal diet.

This is the time of year when people are barbecuing more and more because the weather is nice. And keep in mind that foods such as onions, chocolate, coffee, avocado, grapes, raisins, salt and yeast dough can all be potentially toxic to companion animals. Any change, even for one meal, can give your pet severe indigestion and diarrhea.

6. Play classical music.

Music can soothe an animal in times of stress, especially on the 4th of July. Having a CD playing on a loop can induce calmness and relaxation.

7. Don’t force your pet into a costume for the holiday.

It may seem cute to dress them up in the red, white, and blue, but unless your dog (or even less likely, your cat) loves to play dress-up, don’t push the issue. If they have a medical condition, some sort of loose clothing is definitely acceptable. Also, if your animal shuts down during the fireworks, consider purchasing a thunder shirt, which can be found at our store Whiskers & Wags. They are proven to help make animals feel safe and secure, while keeping anxiety levels down.

8. Use a Crate

If your dog is used to a crate, allow them to utilize this area for a safe place to rest. Provide them with something they enjoy (bones, chew toys, kongs etc.) They can feel content and safe while you won’t have to worry about them as much. It’s a win-win!

9. Consider getting calming treats and Adaptil collars

Calming treats and Adaptil/anti-anxiety collars are both sold in our retail store Whiskers & Wags, and they have been helpful to ease stress for our animals here. The collar mimics the dogs’ natural pheromone that helps ease tension, and can help them relax during a fireworks display, as long as they are indoors. Calming treats will help do the same things, and will taste good as well!

Ticks and fleas are more abundant than ever because of the mild winter we had. They will find a host environment in dogs and cats, and during a celebration it might go unnoticed. We also sell seresto collars which help battle unwanted visitors for up to eight months. They will help during that barbecue and high heated areas! They can be found at our retail store Whiskers & Wags. Does your dog really have bad anxiety? Ask your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medicine, because sometimes that is the best thing to do.

These are just some tips that help our furry friends, and you, prepare for the celebratory holiday! Enjoy, and be safe! Our retail store Whiskers & Wags is open during our adoption hours, provided below.

“Pleased to meet you! My name is Besler and I’m a spunky one-year-old looking for my forever home. Life hasn’t been easy for me so far. I’ve moved around a bit and I’m hoping to find a permanent, stable family. I’m a playful pup and I’m looking for a family who will be able to give me the mental and physical exercise I need to be happy and healthy. I’m a smart guy and I love learning new things. So far, I know “Sit” and “Shake”. I’d love to master new tricks and commands with you. My friends around here tell me that I do pretty well on a leash. I’ve actually joined the running program here at Wayside! I’d love to go exploring with you! I do request that you bring any canines to meet me before going home. Sometimes other dogs can scare me, so I might do well as the only dog as well. I sure can’t wait to find my forever family. I just know they’re out there. Come to Wayside and ask to meet me!”

Learn more about Besler here. He also has a video, which you can view here.

“Pleased to meet you! My name is Emma, and I’m an adorable, chunky little black and white shorthaired girl with the cutest beauty mark on my nose. I came to Wayside from another shelter that was low on space. I’m so excited to be here, where I can meet you! I’m a sweet, affectionate, friendly girl with a nice purr. I give wonderful headbutts. Hey, it’s like I am petting you! Playing with toys is OK, but I really prefer attention and affection from people. When I had my Felineality test here at Wayside, they told me I am a Sidekick. That means I tend to be moderately brave in new situations, and I enjoy the company of people. Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, I will want to be by your side, keeping you company. You will never be lonely with me around!”

Learn more about Emma here. She also has a video, which you can view here.

“Thanks so much for reading about me! My name is Batman and I’m a four-year-old fella looking for a forever home. I came to Wayside when my last shelter ran out of space. Moving around and being the new pup in town has been scary but everyone here is so nice. I know it won’t be long until I find my own family. I’m a smart, energetic guy and I’m excited to learn all sorts of new things. So far I know “Sit”, “Down” and “Wait”. Sometimes I can be a little jumpy but I’m getting better with manners every single day. I’m a confident guy and I make friends with just about anyone I meet. New friends are the best! I also love toys. Tennis balls are my favorite. I could chase one around for hours. I bet we could learn fetch pretty quickly too! I do request that you bring the whole family, including canines, to meet me before we go home. I just want to make sure we’re a good fit for each other. I sure can’t wait to meet you! Come see me today!”

Learn more about Batman here. He also has a video, which you can view here.

Kitten Season has arrived and Wayside Waifs is full with all kinds of adorable little ones waiting to begin a new adventure with a new family!

Kittens are sweet, cuddly, fun and….full of energy! You may have heard the expression “double the pleasure, double the fun.”Well, that applies to kittens.It is highly recommended to adopt kittens in pairs. “What?Why? Now there are two to care for. Wouldn’t that be twice as much work?” Actually, no.Having two kittens is very beneficial in many ways.The most beneficial part is that they will wear each other out!And, who doesn’t enjoy watching kittens chase, pounce and wrestle with each other, or share a toy together?It’s also nice to know they have company when left alone.

“Do they have to be from the same litter?”No, although it is encouraged, since the kittens already know each other.If you do choose two kittens from separate litters, they do need to follow an introduction process in order for their interactions to be positive. You can find our article with proper introductions here. Otherwise, if they start off on the wrong paw, they might never be friends.Sometimes kittens will adjust faster to another kitten they have never met, but there are times when it is very stressful.Remember, each of those kittens are adjusting to a new environment by coming into your home – new sights, sounds and smells.Add to that, a strange kitten, and that can increase the amount of stress.Creating a positive association is key.Proper introductions does not guarantee a friendship, but there is a better chance of that happening rather than just letting them work it out themselves.

This also applies to adult cats ( like one of our bonded pairs Wally and Bolt, pictured above).Cats may not be pack animals like dogs are, but they can enjoy each other’s company as well.Again, following proper introductions will be very beneficial and highly recommended. Some cats (or kittens) will want a snuggle buddy, or someone to wrestle with, or maybe they will just want to co-exist within the same home.

“Should I adopt 2 cats or kittens of the same sex? Does age matter?”Not really.What matters most is the personality and energy level of both cats.If you have an energetic and playful 8 year old, adding an energetic kitten might work. If one is laid back and the other is hyper, that might not be a perfect match.

If you have friends or family with more than one cat, ask them what the pros and cons were for them and the cats.The following are quotes from people who want to weigh in on this topic.

“When our first cat was a kitten, she was lonely whenever we left for work or went away for the weekend.We adopted a 2nd cat around the same age.It took 3 weeks for them to adjust to each other, and they became good friends.It was a great decision!”

“We adopted two sisters from the same litter. We didn’t know it at first, but it was the best decision ever. They were lifelong friends. When one of them passed away, her sister never left her side, and it was so endearing to see how wonderful their bond was.”

“I adopted a brother and a sister, and you’re never bored. I feel better leaving them alone for an 8 hour work day because they had each other. It’s nice to see them comfort each other when something scary happens, like storms or moving.”

Please check out all of our adoptable cats on our website here. We also have a special going on for cats. More info here.

“Hello there, my name is Charlie and I am so happy that you clicked on my pictures. I sure am a handsome boy, aren’t I? I am one year old and weigh about 55 pounds. I’m a bundle of energy and am looking for a home that will help me release all that energy! I love people and I love other dogs — playing is my thing and I think that everybody who is here at Wayside is here to play with me. I also love getting pets and getting treats. I bet that with my love of treats, you can teach me so many things! My new family should have children over the age of five — sometimes I get so excited that I don’t realize how much bigger I am compared to little children. I’d also love to meet any 4 legged children that you have in your house. I’m anxious to see if we can get along. If you are looking for a friendly and spirited young dog, than I am your guy. Come see me today!”

“Hi there! My name is Tiger and I’m a sweet two-year-old fella looking for my forever home. I’m a dashing tabby cat with brown and black fur. I came to Wayside when my last shelter ran out of space. Moving around has been a little scary but I just know this will be my last stop before I find my forever home. I’m a Private Investigator. That means I can be a little shy at first. I’m looking for a home who will be patient with me as I gain confidence and learn my surroundings. In exchange, I promise to be your life-long best friend. Come to Wayside and ask to meet me!”

Learn more about Tiger here. He also has a video, which you can view here.

“Hi there! Thank you so much for reading about me! My name is Sandy and I’m a two-year-old girl with beautiful yellow fur. I came to Wayside from another shelter when they ran out of space. Moving around can be scary but everyone here is so nice and made me feel at home. It’s great here but I can’t dream of having my own yard to run around in and my own couch to cuddle up on. Let’s get to the interesting stuff! I’m a happy girl with a lot of energy and excitement. I would likely do best in a house with kiddos over five but bring out the entire family to meet me to be sure! I sure do love treats and I already know “Sit”. I’d benefit from additional obedience training. I’m a smart girl and I promise it won’t take us long to master those skills. I do well on a leash and I’d love to go exploring with you. Maybe we could check out a park or we could go on a hike together. I’m up for anything as long as I’m with you. If you are a runner, I’m a good running partner! If you’re looking for a sweet pal to go through life with, look no further. Come to Wayside and ask to meet me!”

On June 5, 1940, a Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, known as the Jackson County Animal Betterment Association, was incorporated in the State of Missouri. In 1944, it was revived with new leadership under the name of Wayside Waifs, Inc.

Fenby Webster was the lead contributor who helped to found Wayside Waifs. Her leadership and dedication is still seen throughout the shelter.

Through contributions, Wayside Waifs was able to purchase a 20-acre farm. The shelter was built in southeast Kansas City, Missouri in 1945 and remained until 1999 when a state-of-the-art facility was built adjacent to the original building. Additional acreage was acquired over the years, bringing the total acreage to 50 acres.

The Top of the World Pet Cemetery (now known as Wayside Waifs Pet Memorial Park) was founded in 1946. It was established to provide a convenience to people who wanted their pets put to rest in the peace and beauty of an established haven. More than 12,000 pets are interred on our three pet burial grounds making Wayside one of the largest pet cemeteries in the United States.

Wayside Waifs is a nonprofit humane society and animal shelter. It is not endowed or supported by local, state or federal funds, or national humane organizations. It is financially supported primarily from memberships, bequests, the pet cemetery, adoptions and gifts from the public, businesses and foundations.

During the 1951 flood, Wayside was on duty day and night. In May of 1957, the agency participated in rescue work following the Ruskin Heights and Martin City tornado. Wayside patrolled these areas, bringing in injured and homeless animals. And again in 1993 when floodwaters were rising, Wayside met the challenge and accepted hundreds of animals in need. In recent years, Wayside has also participated actively in raids of illegally operated “puppy mills.”

In December 2012, Wayside Waifs opened the doors of a newly expanded and renovated shelter veterinary clinic. The 47,000 square foot building can shelter up to 800 animals. In 2011, Wayside cared for more than 6,500 abandoned, abused and homeless pets. Wayside Waifs is a comprehensive animal welfare organization providing: animal rescue, shelter veterinary care, retail pet boutique, pet adoptions, off-leash dog park, humane education programs for more than 30,000 school children each year, volunteer opportunities, secure pet care for local domestic violence shelters and pet memorial services and cemetery.

Wayside Waifs is committed to finding homes for all adoptable pets. Wayside is the largest no kill pet adoption campus in Kansas City, placing approximately 5,400 animals each year. Wayside does not euthanize adoptable animals, and there are no time limits for animals in our care. Only animals suffering from significant medical issues or those that pose a danger are humanely euthanized. Wayside Waifs is proud to be a part of Kansas City’s no kill community.

Have a story to share? Did you adopt, volunteer or just have a special memory? We want to hear about it! Share your story with us now! Please consider visiting us during our adoption hours!

“Hi there, I’m Dollie! I want to be your dog. I want to play and exercise and cuddle with you every day. I’ve spent too much time being homeless and I’m so ready to finally find my forever family. I hope that’s you! I’ve been waiting my whole life for you. I’m smart, fun, energetic, and I never have a bad day. I will make a wonderful companion for you! I’m an adorable, 3 ½ year old, 47 pound sweetheart with beautiful and unique markings. I first came to Wayside last fall as a transfer from New Orleans. And I was adopted twice, but neither of those homes worked out for me. One of my owners was allergic and I was too active for the other. That’s ok though and I understand that things sometimes just don’t work out as planned. At least I had a break from the shelter and I’m happy that someone wanted to give me a chance. During my time in a home, I was able to show off a few of my good qualities. I’m crate trained, I enjoy car rides, and I even do well at the groomers. I’m friendly and social with most everyone I meet. I love to go walking or running, and a harness helps to keep me from pulling. I’m athletic and strong and sometimes I forget my own strength when I’m out walking. I’m good at sharing and I’m not protective of my stuff. I love toys and balls so much! I can keep myself entertained when I have my favorite toys to play with. After a day filled with exercise and fun, I love to be close to you and I’m quite an affectionate and loving dog. I’m friendly and eager to please and easy to train. Please teach me what you expect from me and I’ll try my best to follow all the rules. I love to play hard with other dogs and I even get to participate in doggie play groups with other energetic and playful dogs at Wayside. My play can get rough though, so I might be too much for older or more laidback dogs. And I might be too much for young kids as well. Please bring the whole family to meet me and we can see how we all get along. I will need daily exercise in my new home to keep me happy, healthy, and calm. I’m not the sort of dog who will be happy being left alone in a yard or crate all day. I need you to be active with me and exercise with me. A daily walk, run, or hike is something I need from you and I hope you enjoy it too. I’ll be a great partner if you need motivation to stay in shape, because I’ll be your constant companion. Also, please be sure to supervise me when I’m outside. I didn’t have a fence in my last home and I was known to wander off from time to time. I’d love a big yard with a fence to keep me safe and secure! I want to go on adventures and make great memories with you. And I want to share my happy attitude, delightful personality, and zest for life with you. We will be best buddies and share so many good times together. I can’t wait! Please come out to meet me today!”

Learn more about Dollie here. She also has a video, which you can view here.

“Thanks for reading about me! My name is Heathcliff. I’m a single silver tabby male, and I LOVE to cuddle. Oh and I love to talk, too. So if you are looking for a special someone to fill your days and nights with affection and conversation, I’m the perfect guy for you. We can chat and snuggle while you gaze into my perfectly lined, soulful olive green eyes. A nice lady found me with some pretty severe wounds to my legs. She tried to find my people, but had no luck, so she brought me here to Wayside, where I could get veterinary care and find a new family. So … here I am! In my time here at Wayside, I have become one of the most popular cats with staff and volunteers. Seriously, I have people lining up to come cuddle with me in my room. As I mentioned, I do like to talk, and I have a rather loud, gruff-sounding meow. Please don’t let that put you off … I’m really a love bug and teddy bear at heart. I’m a chill, laid-back guy, but I also like to play. I am smart, too. I have a puzzle feeder in my room, and I’m very adept at taking out my food, one kibble at a time, and savoring it slowly. Working a little for my food helps me maintain my lean, muscular physique as well as providing mental stimulation. There’s one more thing I should tell you: I have tested positive for FIV. It’s really no big deal. It just means that I need regular veterinary care and an indoors-only lifestyle. But once you see what a sweet, loving boy I am, you will never want me far away from you anyway. I’m getting lots of love here at Wayside, but I am dreaming of a lap–and a home–to call my very own. Maybe yours?”

Learn more about Heathcliff here. He also has a video, which you can view here.